Thanks for being here! ❤

I am honored to be running the 2025 Chicago Marathon as a member of TeamALS with ALS United of Greater Chicago. I am running to honor my Papa, Gene Kendrick, who lost his battle with ALS ten years ago this April.

Papa was a cornerstone of our family. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering strength left a lasting impression on anyone who knew him. As I gear up to run 26.2 miles, I am inspired by his memory and dedicate every step of this journey to him. 

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, ultimately taking away one's ability to move, speak, and breathe (horrific, right? feel free to skip the rest and punch the donate now button so that we can find a cure and never talk about this horrible disease again).

Organizations like ALS United of Greater Chicago are working tirelessly to change these outcomes. They provide vital support to patients and families, fund groundbreaking research, and fight for the hope of a future without ALS.

This race is my way of contributing to their mission and keeping Papa’s legacy alive. My goal is to raise $5000 for ALS United of Greater Chicago and I invite you to join me! Whether you donate, share my page, or simply cheer me on from afar, every bit of support makes a difference. 

This October, along with the rest of Team ALS, I will run for those who can't - honoring those we've lost, supporting those still fighting, and continuing full speed toward a cure.

Thank you for being part of this very special adventure and helping me honor Papa in such a meaningful way. 

❤  Lauren